Earthseed is all that spreads Earthlife to new earths. The universe is Godseed. Only we are Earthseed. And the Destiny of Earthseed is to take root among the stars.
Parable
of the Sower, p. 77
Discussion questions
The story is set in a near future with close resemblances to the present day. Does the novel still qualify as science fiction? If not, what genre would you suggest for it?
Octavia Butler, as an African-American woman writing in a genre predominated by white males, was a unique contributor to science fiction writing. What role do race and gender play in the novel? What role do race and gender play in traditional science fiction?
According to Lauren and Earthseed, for the human race to survive we will need to go "beyond Mars" to other star systems and create new living worlds. Do you think we should be exploring our galaxy and trying to live on other planets? Why or why not?
